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AUTO Terms of Service

Welcome to AUTO (Autodidacts Uniting for Truth & Opportunity) hosted at thepostleeffect.com. By creating an account or using the site, you agree to these Terms.

1) Eligibility & Access

The site is intended for individuals 13 years and older. If you are under 18, you must have a parent or legal guardian’s consent to use the site. You may browse without an account, but to comment, download, join sessions, or otherwise interact, you must create an account and complete ID verification (see Section 3).

2) Platform Purpose & Posting Model

AUTO is a learning-first environment, not a general social network. Only vetted AUTO Scholars publish educational content. Users participate via discussion and FAQ areas to learn and ask questions.

3) Identification & Verification

To interact (comment, download, join sessions), you must verify your identity. Parents/guardians must provide photo ID to open accounts for minors. Verification is performed by a trusted third-party provider. AUTO never stores ID images or numbers; the provider confirms verification and does not retain documents.

3a) Lost Card Helpers Program

If you currently lack ID, AUTO offers Lost Card Helpers: guides and links to trusted AI assistants (e.g., ChatGPT) to walk you through getting government ID replaced/issued. We may offer live or AI-guided help, especially for elderly users or those with cognitive challenges. Limited access may be provided while ID recovery is in progress. AUTO does not impersonate agencies or file paperwork on your behalf; we provide guidance only.

4) Knowledge Sharing & Licensing

Public educational resources published by AUTO Scholars are free to download, use, remix, and redistribute with attribution. Exception: Private Sessions and Scholar Specials are not licensed for redistribution.

5) Funding & Scholar Incentives

AUTO’s core is 100% free. Scholars may receive gifts/tips and may host optional paid Private Sessions or monthly “Specials.” Light advertising and donations support operations.

6) Fact-Checking & Information Integrity

Verified content displays a Fact-Checked Frame. Theory, interpretation, or early research is marked with disclaimers and sources. Health content is educational only and not medical advice.

7) Conduct & Community Standards

8) Moderation, Enforcement & Appeals

Minor violations may result in warnings or temporary suspension. Serious offenses (e.g., doxxing, racism, violent threats) result in permanent bans, tied to your verified ID and account. Appeals may be made via appeals@thepostleeffect.com.

9) Privacy, Data Use & Security (Summary)

We do not sell personal data or store ID documents. Verification is third-party only. Minimal account data and analytics are collected for security and function. See our Privacy Policy for details.

10) AI Use & Transparency

AUTO may link to trusted AI assistants (e.g., ChatGPT) only for instructional workflows. AI is never used to make moderation/account decisions. Outputs are assistance, not authority.

11) Disclaimers

The site is provided “as is.” AUTO is educational and does not provide professional advice. No guarantees of uptime, accuracy, or completeness are made.

12) Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, AUTO and its contributors are not liable for damages or losses. Since services are free, liability is limited to the fullest extent permitted.

13) Changes to Terms

Users will be notified of changes one week and 12 hours before they take effect. Continued use after effective date constitutes acceptance.

14) Accessibility Commitment

AUTO supports large text options, screen readers, and plain-language guides. Feedback on accessibility is welcome.

15) Governing Law & Venue

These Terms are governed by the laws of Washington State, USA. Venue and jurisdiction are in Washington courts unless otherwise required by law.